AAIB makes ‘significant progress’ in Air India crash investigation after one year
A year after the London-bound Air India flight AI-171 crashed in Ahmedabad, killing 241 of the 242 passengers onboard and 19 people on the ground, the Aircraft Accident Investigation Bureau (AAIB) said on Friday that it has made “significant progress” in its ongoing probe.
The Boeing 787 Dreamliner, operating from Ahmedabad to London Gatwick, crashed just 32 seconds after take-off on June 12, 2025. Only one passenger survived the tragedy.
Extensive technical and operational review underway
In its statement, the AAIB said the investigation team has conducted a detailed examination of technical, operational, organisational and human factors linked to the crash.
The bureau said the probe has involved accredited representatives, technical advisers and subject-matter experts, and includes analysis of:
- Aircraft systems
- Flight recorder data
- Engine-related components
- Maintenance and operational records
The agency reiterated that its goal is to ensure aviation safety through evidence-based findings rather than assigning blame.
Fuel control switch movement under scrutiny
Preliminary findings released in July last year indicated that seconds before the crash, both engine fuel control switches moved from the “RUN” to the “CUTOFF” position.
However, the report did not determine how or why the switches were moved, and did not attribute responsibility to any individual or system failure.
The ongoing investigation remains under global scrutiny due to its implications for Boeing 787 operations and airline safety protocols worldwide.
Civil Aviation Ministry reiterates commitment to safety
Civil Aviation Minister K. Rammohan Naidu said the probe is being conducted with “diligence and professionalism” in line with national and international procedures.
He said the government remains committed to identifying the causes of the crash and strengthening aviation safety standards.
Survivor continues to struggle a year later
The sole survivor of the crash, Viswashkumar Ramesh, said he continues to face severe physical, psychological and financial difficulties.
“I am grateful to be alive, but survival is only part of the story,” he said, adding that he continues to struggle with sleep, anxiety and traumatic memories.
He also noted that while the world sees his survival, the long-term challenges remain largely unseen as he continues trying to rebuild his life.
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